Like millions of others, we’re thrilled that our beloved Eagles are finally Super Bowl champions. But we’re also feeling positive for another related reason.
Super Bowl LII apparently included a greater on-field medical presence than any other game to date, with four unaffiliated neurological consultants (UNC) hired by the NFL to help diagnosis concussions. This compares to just one UNC on each team’s sidelines in other games. Prior to the inclusion of the UNC specialists, team doctors might only ask a few questions before allowing a player to return to play. The UNC specialists, with back-ups on hand as needed, ensure more rigorous testing is provided if concussion is suspected.
The MAC Alliance applauds all efforts to avoid and properly treat concussions. We’re happy to hear of any steps taken to help keep players from returning to the field if they’re injured or still recovering.
In late November, for instance, Eagles kicker Jake Elliott underwent full concussion protocol before being cleared to play again. And, as most people know, Elliott certainly did his part to help the Eagles win, booting three field goals to contribute to the Eagles’ 41-33 victory over the Patriots! Go Eagles!
A Related Note: During World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt, in an attempt to supply a comforting diversion for Americans, insisted that professional sports, including football, be allowed to continue. But with so many able-bodied young men fighting overseas, a shortage existed for quality players.
As a result of this deficit, the Philadelphia Eagles and Pittsburgh Steelers temporarily merged for one season as the “Phil-Pitt-Eagles-Steelers Combine,” unofficially nicknamed the “Steagles.” The team practiced in Philadelphia and wore the Eagles green and white. Many of these players were individuals brought out of retirement, or men with hearing or eyesight issues that had been deemed unfit for service in the military. A big difference from the Eagles team that just took us to our first Super Bowl win!
